Personal Finance Courses Are Everywhere, But Are Federal Employees Using Them?
Most community colleges offer personal finance courses—a practical, affordable resource federal employees can use to navigate FERS, TSP, and retirement decisions.
Author: Francis Xavier (FX) Bergmeister
Is Medicare Optional for Federal Retirees?
Federal retirees enjoy a unique advantage that many Americans lack: the option for lifelong employer-provided health insurance. Therefore, is Medicare still necessary?
Why Federal Employees Should Be Cautious About Private Assets in Retirement Plans
Private assets in 401(k)s promise higher returns but bring hidden risks, and federal employees investing in the TSP need to pay attention.
The Social Security Decision Some FERS Retirees May Get Wrong
FERS retirees may benefit from taking Social Security at 62 to preserve TSP flexibility, reduce future RMDs, and ease survivor tax burdens.
The IRS Interactive Tax Assistant: A Free Tool Federal Employees Should Know About
The IRS Interactive Tax Assistant helps federal employees answer common tax questions quickly with guided interviews but it has some known limitations.
FERS and SBP Survivor Benefits: Know the Point of No Return
FERS and SBP survivor benefit elections can become permanent fast—know your deadlines before submitting retirement paperwork.
The FEGLI Coverage Cliff Few Federal Employees See Coming
FEGLI doubles coverage for employees under 35, then phases out by 45. Early planning avoids coverage gaps and rising premiums later.
When a Spouse Controls Your TSP Withdrawals—But Not Your Legacy
Married FERS participants face strict TSP spousal consent rules that can freeze withdrawals, yet beneficiaries—not spouses—control the account after death.
Why Roth Conversions Require a Different Playbook for Federal Widows with a FERS Pension
Federal widows with FERS and Social Security benefit most from small, strategic Roth conversions to avoid IRMAA and balance lifetime taxes.
Why Avoiding IRMAA Can Cost Federal Retirees More in the Long Run
Paying Medicare’s IRMAA fees briefly can cut lifetime taxes for FERS retirees.
